Volehouse Moor Nature Reserve, north entrance

The north entrance to Volehouse Moor throws open a proper slice of Devon moorland - all heather, gorse, and wide open sky. It's the kind of place where you actually feel the weather, whether that's bracing wind or rare Devon sunshine burning through the clouds. Walking here, you're on genuine upland heath rather than the prettified park paths you might expect. The reserve stretches across genuine wild ground, and from the higher sections you get views that stretch toward the coast.

This is walker territory first and foremost. The moorland paths are manageable but not manicured, which means proper boots are sense rather than preference. You could easily lose two hours wandering the reserve without trying hard, or knock off a quicker circuit if you're just after fresh air and leg-stretching. Birdwatchers tend to have opinions about what they've spotted here - the open habitat attracts different species than you'd see in the valleys.

Families with younger kids might find it a bit relentless - there's no visitor centre, cafe, or obvious focal point, just the moor itself. Teenagers and anyone who likes walking without being told where to go will get on with it fine. The north entrance is the natural starting point if you're coming from Bideford direction.

You're well positioned for a moorland break if you're based at Roeys Retreat Campsite or Atlantic Horizons - both within easy driving distance. Spring and early autumn are when the reserve does its best work, though honestly, midweek in winter has its own appeal if you don't mind being alone on the hills.